ELEM: Purchasing Books

[MRS JOYCE M RICHARDS <HJSN31B@PRODIGY.COM>]

Hi,

I am a first year library media specialist in a parochial school.  I
need information on how others purchase books for their libraries or
spend their book budget.  We do not deal with any one vendor or with
purchase order numbers.  Is it best to purchase books from one main
vendor?  Is this method more economical and yet meet your book needs?
 Or is it best to purchase books from many vendors?  Is purchasing
books from a local bookstore another option for a parochial school in
my situation?  Are titles of certain books only available from
certain publishers?  I need your help in clearing up my confusion
when it comes to purchasing books in an efficient and cost effective
manner.  I serve a K-8 clientele.

Thanks in advance,

Joyce Richards
Overland Park, KS    e-mail  HJSN31B@prodigy.com